Off the Record — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

Said in private, and not meant to be repeated or printed.

When something is off the record, the speaker shares it but does not want it quoted.

It's common in news, in business, and in any frank chat.

Use it when…

When a source tells a journalist something they don't want published
When a colleague shares their real opinion privately
When someone admits something in confidence they wouldn't say publicly

Don’t confuse with...

"In Confidence"

—

Shared as a personal secret, not necessarily an informal opinion

"Between Us"

—

A personal agreement not to repeat one specific thing

"Off the Record"

—

Shared informally and not for public use or attribution

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Off the Record" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Meetings

The manager said, off the record, that the merger had already been decided weeks ago.

Relationships & Social Life

Gossip / Talking About Others

Off the record, she told her colleague she was planning to resign by the end of the month.

Media & Everyday Life

News

The politician told reporters, off the record, that the bill had no chance of passing.

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Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Off the Record" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Office Conversations

Colleague

Can I tell you something off the record?

You

Of course — what's going on?

Relationships

Talking to friend

You

Off the record — I think they're going to break up before the year ends.

Friend

Really? I had absolutely no idea.

Everyday Conversations

Opinions

Friend

What do you actually think of the new boss?

You

Off the record? I'm not impressed at all.

‹›

Last updated:

October 4, 2026

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